New Delhi, January 25, 2025 — On the eve of India’s 76th Republic Day, the Government of India announced the illustrious Padma Awards for 2025. The awards will be given to 139 eminent individuals who have made exceptional contributions in various fields. The awards are conferred in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
Padma Vibhushan: In Honor of Exceptional Service
The Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award in India, was accorded to seven of the most distinguished personalities:
Osamu Suzuki: The former CEO of Suzuki Motor Corporation, he was instrumental in revolutionizing the automotive industry in India through the Maruti Suzuki partnership and contributively to the nation’s economic growth.
Sharda Sinha: A celebrated folk singer from Bihar, Sharda Sinha is known for her soulful renditions, which have preserved and endowed with greater popularity Bhojpuri and Maithili music traditions.
Justice (Retd.) Jagdish Singh Khehar: The 44th Chief Justice of India, Khehar is known for his contributions to the Indian judiciary, and to landmark judgments.
Duvvur Nageshwar Reddy: A prominent gastroenterologist, Dr. Reddy was awarded for his achievements in medical science and healthcare services.
Kumudini Lakhia: She is a celebrated Kathak dancer and choreographer and has projected and innovated the classical dance form globally.
S. Nambi Narayanan: Once an ISRO scientist, Nambi Narayanan has made his mark in contributions to the field of space research by overcoming several adversities.
P.V. Sindhu: An Olympic medalist and world champion athlete herself, she brought glory to our country through her sporting achievements.
Padma Bhushan: In recognition of Distinctive Service
The 19 to have received the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian honor in India, include:
Ajith Kumar: A leading actor in Tamil cinema, Kumar was honored for his artistic contributions to the entertainment fraternity.
Shekhar Kapur: He is a filmmaker with international acclaim, who has done works in Indian cinema as well as world cinema, including the acclaimed film “Elizabeth.”
Pankaj Udhas (Posthumous): The late ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas remains forever in the hearts of people due to his melodious voice and having immensely contributed to Indian music.
Padma Shri: Celebrating Grassroots Excellence
The Padma Shri award was given to 113 individuals for their eminent service in various fields. They include:
Arijit Singh: He is one of the most versatile playback singers who have moved innumerable souls with their emotive renditions in various Indian languages.
Ravichandran Ashwin: The accomplished cricketer Ashwin is widely known for his unmatched contributions as the leading spin-bowler and all-rounder in Indian cricket.
Harvinder Singh: The first Indian Paralympic silver medalist in archery, Singh is honored for achievements in sports and inspiring differently-abled athletes.
L. Hangthing: From Nagaland, Hangthing has been recognized for contributions in social work and community development.
Hariman Sharma: Hailing from Himachal Pradesh, Sharma is awarded for his innovative farming techniques and contributions towards agriculture.
Wide-Population Recognition
The Padma Awards this year showcase a wide range of talents and epitomize services from the fields of arts, sciences, social work, public affairs, and sports as a combination of starkly contrasting talents. The unsung heroes standing shoulder to shoulder with open personalities is a fine illustration of the government’s recognition of contributions at all levels of society.
Recognition by the Prime Minister
Those awarded were congratulated by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, for being a true inspiration for rivalry, hard work, and commitment summing up to the nation. There is no doubt that the diversity of work portrayed gives a feeling of India’s advancement on multiple fronts.
The Padma Awards 2025 are stars that recognize the remarkable talents of individuals who devoted their entire lives to the improvement of society. In recognizing such a wide spectrum of talents and services, the nation endorses the spirit of excellence, a relentless driving force behind India’s growth and development.
